What to expect when you see your Gynaecologist for the first time

We have all heard scary or awkward stories about visiting a Gynaecologist, haven’t we? So, you’re not alone here. 

Many of these tales might not be accurate, and we re here to clear things up. It’s normal to feel nervous or embarrassed about your first Gynaecologist visit, but there’s nothing to worry about. We’ll walk you through what to expect during your OBGYN exam so you can go in feeling confident.

Also, parents, this blog is a great resource to share with your daughter to help ease her into her first appointment.

What Is a Gynaecologist?

To be clear, let us first understand what a Gynaecologist or is.

A Gynaecologist is a medical professional who specialises in women s reproductive health. They can detect and treat issues with the female reproductive organs, such as: 

Breast
Fallopian Tubes
Ovaries 
Uterus
Vagina
Vulva

Now, let s take a look at the few conditions that Gynaecologists treat:

You might be sent to a Gynaecologist for reasons like:

Skin issues on the vulva or vagina
Repeated miscarriages
Pre-pregnancy advice
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Menopause and hormone treatments
Infertility investigations
Heavy, painful, or irregular periods
General gynaecology concerns
Birth control options
Abnormal cervical screening tests/colposcopy
Why do you need a Gynaecologist appointment?

There is no set guideline for when you should see a Gynaecologist/ Obstetrician for the first time; it depends on a variety of circumstances. Some women see a Gynaecologist when they have a symptom or problem that requires a specialist s advice. 

A general practitioner (GP) may refer a patient to a Gynaecologist if they consider the symptoms or condition to need expert treatment.

There are several reasons to arrange your first gynaecological session. Some women seek STD testing if they are sexually active, while others begin normal cervical cancer screening with a pap smear and may have particular concerns.

The appropriate age for your first session may vary. If you are sexually active, regardless of your age, you should see your doctor about vaginal health, safe sex, contraception, and other topics. However, cervical cancer screening with a pap smear normally begins at age 21, regardless of sexual activity. 

Unless you have a medical problem, you may usually wait until then for your first gynaecological appointment. As long as your findings are normal, you should get a pap smear every three years from the ages of 21 to 29, and every five years from the ages of 30 to 65. 

This test is one of the most essential preventative procedures in medicine since it detects precancerous cells in the cervix, enabling physicians to handle minor problems before they worsen.

What Should You Expect at Your First Gynaecologist Appointment?

During your initial appointment, your Gynaecologist/ Obstetrician will inquire about your medical history, any previous surgeries, allergies, family medical history, and any current medicines. They will also inquire about your occupation and interests to get to know you better.

The primary emphasis will be on the purpose of your visit. Depending on your concerns, a pelvic exam may be performed, as well as a cervical screening (pap smear). 

If necessary, the Gynaecologist may do an abdominal or vaginal ultrasound. Additional testing, such as blood work or thorough scans, may be needed thereafter.

If you have never been sexually active, a gynaecological checkup is typically unnecessary.

What Happens During Your Gynaecologist Examination?

If your Gynaecologist has to do an internal exam, she will offer you a clean gown and leave the room while you change. After that, you will lie down on the test table with a sheet to protect yourself.

First, your Gynaecologist will carefully feel your breasts for any lumps or anomalies. This is also an opportunity for you to raise any concerns you may have.

Relax and allow your legs to fall to the sides during the pelvic exam. Relaxing your abdominal and vaginal muscles will make the exam more bearable. The Gynaecologist will carefully inspect you with a gel-coated glove. They may inquire whether you are in any pain or discomfort throughout the checkup.

What Examination to Expect During Your Visit

Here are the typical examinations you will have during your appointment:

Your doctor may also have assistance in the room. The assistant is there to make you comfortable, explain what is going on, and support the doctor.

Here s what to anticipate from a gynaecological examination: